Ref. 13759_02DISABLED shoppers finally lost the fight to keep their wheelchairs and scooters when Trowbridge Shopmobility closed on Wednesday.

The charity, which has helped disabled people get around town since 1997, announced plans to close last month after failing to raise the £20,000 annual running costs.

Trustees rejected a last minute £7,500 rescue bid by councils and businesses and 560 users are now left without a service.

Customers held a small leaving party and Matt Stabb, chairman of the trustees said: "People have come in to say goodbye but it is more like a wake than a party. We tried to keep it open."

Trustees first announced they were to close in June claiming the funding pot had dried up.

Although just a week ago councils and local businesses pledged £7,500 to keep the ailing service running for a few extra months it came too late to save the day.

Trustees are selling the scooters and wheelchairs to pay back mounting debts but are giving the town council first refusal.

Doug Ross, Trowbridge town clerk said: "We are giving serious considera- tion to the offer of buying the wheelchairs and scooters so a new service can be provided in the future."